Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division 1.5SMC18AHM3/I
- Part No.:
- 1.5SMC18AHM3/I
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Datasheet:
-
1.5SMC18AHM3/I.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 15.3VWM 25.2VC DO214AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,453
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Product details
Overview
1.5SMC18AHM3/I from Vishay General Semiconductor is a unidirectional transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode designed for robust overvoltage protection in power and signal lines. It features a 15.3 V stand-off voltage (VWM), 17.1–18.9 V breakdown voltage (VBR) at 1 mA, 25.2 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 59.5 A peak pulse current, and 1500 W peak pulse power capability with a 10/1000 μs waveform - deployed in automotive power supply rails, industrial sensor interfaces, and DC-DC converter inputs.
For engineers reviewing the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I datasheet, 1.5SMC18AHM3/I pinout, 1.5SMC18AHM3/I application, or 1.5SMC18AHM3/I equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, SMC (DO-214AB) package details, AEC-Q101 qualification status, thermal resistance data, and real-world protection use cases - all aligned to Vishay's official 88303 specification revision dated 09-Mar-2026.
Technical Context
This unidirectional TVS diode operates as a voltage-clamped shunt protector: when reverse voltage exceeds VWM = 15.3 V, it avalanches into low-impedance conduction to divert surge energy away from downstream circuitry. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable breakdown and fast response (<1 ns), while the SMC package supports automated placement and meets MSL Level 1 reflow (260 °C peak).
The device is rated for 200 A non-repetitive forward surge current (IFSM, 8.3 ms half-sine), has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 75 °C/W, and is halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and AEC-Q101 qualified - confirming suitability for automotive-grade power rail protection where reliability under repetitive transients is critical.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off) | 15.3 V - maximum continuous reverse operating voltage before clamping begins; sets safe margin below system nominal voltage. |
| VBR min/max | 17.1 V / 18.9 V at IT = 1 mA - tight 5.3% tolerance ensures predictable turn-on across production lots. |
| VC @ IPPM | 25.2 V at 59.5 A - clamping voltage defines worst-case voltage seen by protected IC during 10/1000 μs surge. |
| PPPM | 1500 W - peak pulse power handling capacity with standard 10/1000 μs waveform; enables protection against lightning-induced surges. |
| IPPM | 59.5 A - maximum non-repetitive peak pulse current; determines minimum trace width and PCB copper area required. |
| TJ max | +150 °C - maximum junction temperature; allows operation in under-hood automotive environments without derating. |
| RθJA | 75 °C/W - thermal resistance from junction to ambient on standard 8 mm × 8 mm copper pads; informs heatsinking requirements. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SMC (DO-214AB), surface-mount, low-profile plastic case with matte tin-plated leads solderable per J-STD-002 and JESD 22-B102. Cathode indicated by band; polarity-critical for unidirectional operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Current entry point during forward conduction; connected to ground or lower-potential node in unidirectional configuration. | Must be tied to reference plane with low-inductance path to ensure effective clamping during fast transients. |
| Cathode | Current exit point during reverse avalanche; connected to protected line (e.g., 12 V rail, CAN H, sensor VCC). | Banded end - incorrect orientation results in open-circuit failure mode; no protection provided. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive applications including engine control units and body electronics - supports PPAP and long-term reliability requirements. |
| 1500 W peak pulse power | Withstands IEC 61000-4-5 Level 4 (4 kV) surges on 12 V systems without degradation when properly mounted. |
| Halogen-free & RoHS-compliant | Meets EU Directive 2011/65/EU and JEDEC JS709B; eliminates brominated flame retardants for safer end-of-life processing. |
| MSL Level 1 rating | Zero floor life limitation - can be stored indefinitely at ≤30 °C/60% RH and assembled using standard 260 °C reflow profile. |
| Low incremental surge resistance | Minimizes VC overshoot during high-di/dt events - critical for protecting sensitive gate drivers and microcontroller I/O pins. |
Applications
| Automotive Power Rail Protection | Industrial Sensor Interface Protection |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting 12 V battery-fed ECUs from load-dump transients (ISO 16750-2) and alternator ripple. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Shunt TVS placed between VBAT and chassis ground, clamping spikes within 1 ns to limit voltage seen by LDOs and MCU power pins. Use Value: Withstands 1500 W surges while maintaining VC ≤ 25.2 V - prevents brownout resets and gate oxide damage in downstream PMICs. |
Use Scenario: Safeguarding analog sensor outputs (e.g., pressure, temperature) connected to PLC analog input modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS on signal line (e.g., 4–20 mA loop supply) referenced to local ground, suppressing ESD and inductive kickback. Use Value: 17.1–18.9 V VBR range aligns with 24 V industrial supply margins; low leakage (<1 μA at 15.3 V) avoids signal offset errors. |
| DC-DC Converter Input Protection | Automotive Lighting Control |
|
Use Scenario: Input-side surge suppression for buck converters powering ADAS cameras or infotainment head units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary clamping device upstream of input capacitor; absorbs energy from ISO 7637-2 Pulse 1/2a/5a transients. Use Value: 59.5 A IPPM rating matches typical 12 V system surge currents; 75 °C/W RθJA enables thermal stability without heatsink on 2-layer boards. |
Use Scenario: Overvoltage protection for LED driver ICs in adaptive front lighting systems (AFS) exposed to battery transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Unidirectional TVS on high-side switch supply rail, referenced to ground to clamp negative-going spikes during MOSFET turn-off. Use Value: AEC-Q101 qualification ensures compliance with automotive lifecycle stress tests; halogen-free construction meets OEM material declarations. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient voltage suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ18A | Same VWM (15.4 V), lower PPPM (600 W), SMB package (smaller footprint, higher RθJA = 85 °C/W). | Limited to lower-energy surges (e.g., IEC 61000-4-2 ESD only); unsuitable for ISO 16750-2 load dump. | Select when board space is constrained and surge threat level is Class 2 or lower. |
| 1.5KE18A | Through-hole DO-201 package, identical VWM/VBR/VC, same 1500 W rating but higher mounting inductance and no AEC-Q101 qualification. | Not suitable for automated SMT lines or automotive production; requires wave soldering and manual inspection. | Choose only for legacy through-hole designs or prototyping where reflow compatibility is not required. |
Compared with SMBJ18A and 1.5KE18A, the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, SMC surface-mount compatibility, 1500 W surge capacity, and halogen-free construction - making it the preferred choice for volume automotive and industrial SMT production where reliability, manufacturability, and regulatory compliance are jointly mandated.
Availability
1.5SMC18AHM3/I is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power rail protection, industrial sensor interface hardening, and DC-DC converter input surge suppression requiring stable component supply, full traceability, and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Vishay General Semiconductor is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in diodes, rectifiers, TVS devices, and optoelectronics with emphasis on high-reliability and automotive-grade performance.
The 1.5SMC Series was engineered specifically for high-power transient suppression in harsh environments - delivering consistent clamping behavior, AEC-Q101 validation, and robust thermal performance in compact SMC packaging.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I under a 10/1000 µs surge?
The 1.5SMC18AHM3/I exhibits a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 25.2 V when subjected to its rated peak pulse current of 59.5 A with a 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per Figure 1 in Vishay document 88303 and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuitry during standardized surge events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings.
Is the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I AEC-Q101 qualified?
Yes, the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I is AEC-Q101 qualified, as confirmed by Vishay's ordering code suffix "HM3" (halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, AEC-Q101 qualified) and documented in the "Ordering Information" section of datasheet 88303. This qualification covers stress tests including high-temperature operating life, temperature cycling, and ESD - validating its suitability for automotive electronic control units and lighting systems.
What does the "I" suffix mean in 1.5SMC18AHM3/I?
The "I" suffix in 1.5SMC18AHM3/I denotes the tape-and-reel packaging option: 3500 units per 13-inch diameter reel (per Vishay's ordering table on page 3 of document 88303). It does not affect electrical or thermal specifications - the "HM3" portion confirms halogen-free, RoHS-compliant, and AEC-Q101 qualified construction, while "I" specifies logistics format for SMT placement equipment.
Can the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I be used in bidirectional configurations?
No, the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I is a unidirectional TVS diode, as indicated by the "A" suffix (not "CA") and explicit marking "18A" on the device body. Bidirectional variants require the "CA" suffix (e.g., 1.5SMC18CA). Using 1.5SMC18AHM3/I in a bidirectional application would result in forward conduction during negative transients, potentially damaging the device or failing to protect the circuit.
What is the thermal resistance of the 1.5SMC18AHM3/I, and how does it impact layout?
The 1.5SMC18AHM3/I has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 75 °C/W when mounted on 8.0 mm × 8.0 mm copper pads per terminal (per datasheet 88303, page 3). This value directly informs PCB layout: reducing pad size or omitting thermal vias increases RθJA, risking thermal runaway during repetitive surges - so designers must maintain minimum pad dimensions and add ≥4 thermal vias per pad for sustained operation near PPPM.
1.5SMC18AHM3/I Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AB, SMC
- Series:
- 1.5SMC, TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Bidirectional Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 15.3V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 17.1V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 25.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 59.5A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 1500W (1.5kW)
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- Telecom
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AB (SMC)
1.5SMC18AHM3/I FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I reliable?
The price and inventory of 1.5SMC18AHM3/I are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I?
1.5SMC18AHM3/I orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 1.5SMC18AHM3/I order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I?
For technical support, including 1.5SMC18AHM3/I datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 1.5SMC18AHM3/I requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 1.5SMC18AHM3/I is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 1.5SMC18AHM3/I products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 1.5SMC18AHM3/I meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 1.5SMC18AHM3/I?
All 1.5SMC18AHM3/I units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 1.5SMC18AHM3/I, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 1.5SMC18AHM3/I part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 1.5SMC18AHM3/I:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
1.5SMC18AHM3/I Tags

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Diodes Incorporated
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